An apple tree in your own garden often requires a lot of care. If pests are found on the apples, it is tempting to put an end to them with sprays.
What alternatives are there to spraying an apple tree?
When spraying an apple tree against pests and diseases, chemical agents should only be used in emergencies. Organic alternatives such as baking soda solution, wormwood tea or rapeseed oil are more suitable for the home garden, but they must be used regularly.
Chemical agents and their use
The use of chemical agents for spraying should only be considered in cases of extreme pest infestation. Only when nature is already so far out of balance that almost every single apple is infested with frost moth caterpillars should chemical treatment be resorted to. However, treatment in the current year is often too late, especially since some of the treated fruits can then no longer be eaten. Most chemical agents have to be regularly distributed over the entire tree crown by May at the latest in order to be effective.
Strengthen the tree with targeted care measures
If fungal infestation is found on an apple tree, the use of a spray may not necessarily be necessary. Fungal infestation is often due to excessive moisture, which results in a tree crown that is too dense. With vigorous summer pruning, this problem can sometimes be solved without any chemical impact on the harvest.
Protect your own he alth when injecting
Since many chemical agents are not harmless, it is important to pay attention to the warnings given on the packaging. Many products can no longer be used within a certain period of time before the harvest without affecting the edibility of the apples. In addition, you should only spray when there is no wind so that you do not inhale the product yourself while working. If possible, wear respiratory protection to provide additional protection from accidentally inhaling the substance in question.
Biological Alternatives
Not only in commercial organic farming, but also in your own garden, you can do a lot against pests and various diseases using natural remedies. Examples of biological sprays include:
- Baking soda solution
- Wormwood tea
- Rapeseed oil
These products only work on the surface of the plants and do not penetrate the branches and fruits. However, since they are washed off by the rain, they must be used regularly.
Tips & Tricks
Excessive levels of diseases and pests usually only occur in monocultures. A looser planting with other fruit trees can protect against this, as can choosing scab-resistant varieties for apple trees.
